How difficult was it to ascend the ranks in the DJ world?
Kiss: It was difficult, but it helped to have good management, a passion for it, and good marketing [techniques]; my first name is JaKissa. DJing is also a business, which means rolling out of bed with three hours of sleep. Format: What is it like playing at all these huge corporate events? Kiss: Quite manageable, actually. At corporate parties and product launches, there isn’t much focus on music; it’s more of an abbreviated club experience. All eyes are on the product; people are more concerned with getting their free Blackberry [laughs]. Format: Diddy named you one of his top three DJs to work with; you must have a story. Kiss: He’s a consummate gentleman. I played a party of his called ‘Harlem’s Hollywood,’ in the Hollywood Hills. I was in this room that overlooked the whole dance floor, and it was very challenging because there was no crowd feedback or direct contact. At one point, Diddy came up and said to me: ‘I know you can’t see what’s going on, but you’re killing it.’ It was
